Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation Brings in Security for Replacement Nurses While Denying Same Protections to Its Own Nurses
Nurses begin unfair labor practice strike alleging retaliation for protected union activity and unilateral changes to working conditions.
As nurses began an unfair labor practice (ULP) strike today at Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, the employer brought in security personnel for temporary replacement nurses—the same protection MNA nurses have been seeking in contract negotiations for more than a year.
The strike is based on ULP charges alleging Hazelden Betty Ford engaged in disparate treatment of nurses because of their protected union activity and made unilateral changes to nurses’ working conditions without bargaining, as required under the National Labor Relations Act.
Employer’s Actions During Strike Reinforce Nurses’ Safety Concerns
Throughout contract negotiations, nurses have proposed adding dedicated on-site security personnel to help protect patients, caregivers and visitors. Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation has opposed the proposal, arguing that permanent on-site security would disrupt the therapeutic care environment.
As the strike began, however, Hazelden Betty Ford brought in security personnel for these temporary replacement nurses working during the ULP strike.
“While nurses are on the strike line, Hazelden is bringing in temporary nursing staff with the same security protections nurses have been bargaining for over the past year but still have not received,” said Anne Coleman, RN.
Nurses say Hazelden Betty Ford’s decision demonstrates that on-site security can be incorporated into the care environment when the employer determines it is necessary. They continue to advocate for dedicated security personnel as part of a long-term approach to protecting patients, caregivers and visitors.
Hazelden Canceled Bargaining Sessions After Strike Notice
After nurses provided notice of the ULP strike, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation leadership notified the Minnesota Nurses’ Association that it was canceling previously scheduled bargaining sessions. The parties are now scheduled to return to the bargaining table on July 21.
Nurses remain committed to bargaining in good faith and reaching a fair agreement that addresses the issues raised during negotiations.
Nurses Ready to Return to the Bargaining Table
The ULP strike will continue as nurses call on Hazelden Betty Ford to address the alleged labor law violations and bargain in good faith.
Nurses remain prepared to resume negotiations on July 21 and are committed to reaching an agreement that protects workers’ rights, improves workplace safety, and ensures patients continue to receive high-quality care.
